Kenoza Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Kenoza Lake Dam, located in Sullivan, New York, is a historic stone dam completed in 1843 with a height of 13 feet and a length of 70 feet.


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Summary

Situated on the Jaketown Creek, this dam serves primarily for recreational purposes, providing a picturesque backdrop for outdoor activities in the charming city of Kenoza Lake. With a storage capacity of 440 acre-feet and a surface area of 83 acres, the dam offers a tranquil setting for visitors to enjoy the surrounding natural beauty.

Managed by a private owner, Kenoza Lake Dam is regulated by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYS DEC) and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity and safety. Classified as having a low hazard potential and a moderate risk level, the dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 62 feet to manage water flow during peak discharge events. While the condition assessment is currently not rated, emergency action plans are in place to address any unforeseen occurrences and the dam's risk management measures are continuously evaluated to mitigate potential hazards.

Enthusiasts of water resources and climate will appreciate the historical significance and recreational value of Kenoza Lake Dam, nestled in the scenic surroundings of Sullivan County, New York. As a key component of the local landscape, this stone dam not only provides a serene setting for outdoor activities but also underscores the importance of proper maintenance and regulatory oversight to ensure the safety of both the structure and the surrounding community. With its rich history and role in water resource management, Kenoza Lake Dam serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between human enjoyment and environmental stewardship in the face of changing climate conditions.

Year Completed

1843

Dam Length

70

Dam Height

13

River Or Stream

JAKETOWN CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Stone

Surface Area

83

Nid Storage

440

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

13
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.

Hazard Potential Classification

High
Dams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.